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Workplace Anxiety: In today’s fast-paced, performance-driven work culture, the pressure to meet deadlines, manage expectations, and maintain productivity can become overwhelming, leading to what many experience as workplace anxiety. While occasional stress is a normal part of any job, persistent anxiety that interferes with daily functioning is a serious mental health concern. According to the Indian Psychiatric Society (IPS), up to 45 per cent of working professionals in India report symptoms of anxiety. Yet, few seek timely help due to stigma and fear of being perceived as unprofessional. 

Workplace anxiety is a psychological condition that can significantly impact an individual’s performance, self-esteem and overall well-being. Workplace anxiety can manifest through a range of symptoms, both emotional and physical, including restlessness, difficulty concentrating, fatigue, irritability and even physical symptoms like headaches or stomach issues. In conversation with Jagran English, Dr Kushal Agrawal, HOD, Department of Neonatology and Paediatrics, KVR Hospital, Kashipur, shares the causes, symptoms and treatments to manage workplace anxiety.

What Causes Workplace Anxiety?

Dr Kushal Agrawal shares what are the main causes of workplace anxiety. He states, “Common triggers include excessive workload, lack of control over tasks, fear of layoffs, poor work-life balance and toxic office dynamics.” The British Psychological Society (BPS) describes the workplace as “value conflict” where personal and organisational ethics don’t align and results in emotional stress.

Symptoms Of Workplace Anxiety

Clinically, workplace anxiety may appear as:

Constant overthinking about work

Avoidance of meetings or tasks

Sleep problems

Physical symptoms like headaches, fatigue, or palpitations

Dr Kushal Agrawal recommends that if these symptoms persist for more than six months and affect functioning, a psychiatric evaluation is recommended.

Workplace Anxiety (1)

Workplace Anxiety Symptoms (Image Credits: Canva)

Treatments Of Workplace Anxiety

Evidence-Based Management

The   APA and IPS   recommend   Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)   as the first-line treatment. CBT helps individuals recognise and reframe negative thought patterns. For moderate to severe cases, psychiatrists may also prescribe  SSRIs like escitalopram, often in combination with therapy.

Dr Kushal Agrawal mentions, “Mindfulness techniques, lifestyle adjustments (exercise, sleep hygiene, reducing caffeine) and limiting screen time can also be highly beneficial.”

Tips Employees Can Follow To Manage Workplace Anxiety

Dr Kushal Agrawal lists down some tips to manage workplace anxiety. These are:

Flexible hours

Mental health leave

Confidential access to therapy (EAPs)

Training HR teams in early identification and non-judgmental support.

Workplace anxiety is not a weakness, it is a treatable medical condition. With early intervention, the right therapy and supportive organizational policies, individuals can regain control of their mental well-being and thrive at work.

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